The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, are still investigating illnesses in a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections linked to organic walnuts from Gibson Farms, Inc. of Hollister, California that were distributed to multiple natural food and co-op stores.
State and local public health officials have interviewed people about the foods they ate in the week before they became ill. Of the 10 people interviewed, all 10 (100%) reported eating walnuts, and almost all reported buying organic walnuts from bulk bins in food co-ops or natural food stores.
FDA's traceback investigation identified Gibson Farms, Inc. as the common supplier of walnuts in this outbreak. On April 27, 2024, Gibson Farms, Inc. initiated a voluntary recall and contacted their distributing customers. Distributors and retailers that may have received recalled bulk organic walnuts should follow the recommendations above and contact their customers.
Stores affected
Recalled organic walnut halves and pieces were sold in bulk bins at natural food and co-op stores in AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, KS, LA, MT, NE, NM, NV, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA, and WY. A full list of store names and locations is available.
FDA is working with the firm and its distributors to determine whether additional store locations, products, or states are affected. FDA is sharing what is known at this time and will continue to update as more information is available.
Outbreak investigation summary
Gibson Farms, Inc. organic walnut halves and pieces
- Sold in bulk bins
- Expiration dates between May 21, 2025, and June 7, 2025
- Distributed to natural food and co-op stores in AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, KS, LA, MT, NE, NM, NV, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA and WY
- Lot codes 3325-043 and 3341-501
- Almost all sick people purchased organic walnuts from bulk bins in food co-ops or natural food stores in California and Washington.
For more information: cdc.gov